In a tragic twist of fate, Vanshika, a 22-year-old student of Indian origin in Canada, was found dead under mysterious circumstances on a beach after being missing for four days. The Indian High Commission in Ottawa has confirmed her death, which has left the whole Indian and Hindu communities in Canada shaken. The police have initiated an investigation to determine the cause, which is unknown so far.

A Journey That Ended Too Soon

A Dera Bassi, Punjab native, Vanshika had shifted to Ottawa two and a half years back to do a diploma course after schooling. She was the daughter of Devinder Singh, AAP leader and close confidant of MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa. Bright, motivated, and lively is how people recall Vanshika, who had aspirations of establishing a career overseas, just like most young Indian students who go abroad for further studies.

The Day She Disappeared

"Vanshika has been missing since the evening of Friday, April 25th, 2025, after leaving her residence at 7 Majestic Drive around 8-9 PM to view a rental room. Her phone was switched off at approximately 11:40 PM that night, and she missed an important exam the following day, an action completely out of character for her. Despite extensive efforts by her family and friends, there has been no contact or information about her whereabouts," said a letter from the Hindi Community in Ottawa to the municipal police, calling for urgent action.

The sudden disappearance of Vanshika has raised serious alarm among her friends and family. They were particularly worried when her phone remained off for hours and she did not turn up for a crucial exam—something those close to her assured would never be possible.

A Community in Distress

The Hindus of Ottawa united in desperation and panic and expressed their agony in the letter. "We are deeply worried and, frankly, fearing the worst. The Hindu community in Ottawa is distressed, and the anxiety continues to grow with each passing hour. Given the troubling circumstances and the vulnerability of the missing person, we respectfully request your personal attention and intervention in this matter. We humbly urge the Ottawa Police Service to escalate this case, allocate appropriate resources, and prioritise the investigation into Vanshika's disappearance. A swift and thorough response could make a critical difference in ensuring her safe return," they pleaded.

Their worst nightmare came true when Vanshika's body was found under undisclosed circumstances on a beach, according to media reports. The details of her death are still unclear, and members of her family and community are in shock and mourning.

Official Statement and Ongoing Probe

The High Commission of India in Ottawa expressed its condolences and assured full support to the family. "We are deeply saddened to be informed of the death of Ms. Vanshika, a student from India in Ottawa. The matter has been taken up with the concerned authorities and the cause is under investigation by local police. We are in close contact with the bereaved kin and local community associations to provide all possible assistance," it stated.

Family Suspects Foul Play

Even as police keep probing, the family alleges foul play and is calling for a detailed inquiry into the events surrounding Vanshika's death. The tragic news had rung deeply, especially within the Indian community in Canada, evoking fears over the security of students and the vulnerability of foreign students abroad.

While the community mourns this tragic loss, they also demand answers and justice for Vanshika, a life lost too young under circumstances still unclear.

Official Statement and Ongoing Probe

The High Commission of India in Ottawa sent condolences along with complete family support through an official statement. "We are deeply saddened to be informed of the death of Ms. Vanshika, a student from India in Ottawa. The matter has been taken up with concerned authorities, and the cause is under investigation by local police. We are in close contact with the bereaved kin and local community associations to provide all possible assistance," it stated.